Science at KWPS
Subject Leader: Mrs R Lewthwaite
What Science Looks Like at KWPS
EYFS
In the Early Years, Science is taught through exploration, play and hands-on experiences as part of Understanding the World. Children investigate the natural world through observation, questioning and discussion. Learning focuses on developing curiosity about the environment, seasonal change and living things. Evidence of learning is recorded through observations and class floor books.
KS1 & KS2
Science is taught through weekly lessons following the National Curriculum. Topics are organised into Biology, Chemistry and Physics and are carefully sequenced to build knowledge over time.
Pupils learn through:
- predicting and questioning
- practical investigations
- observing and recording
- analysing results and drawing conclusions
Scientific vocabulary is explicitly taught and used in discussions, diagrams and written work. Regular retrieval opportunities are built into lessons to support long-term knowledge retention.
Enrichment
Science is enriched through trips, workshops, themed days such as Science Week and opportunities to work with visitors from STEM-related careers.
Assemblies
Assemblies support science learning through themes such as sustainability, innovation and real-world scientific developments.
Cross-curricular links
Science is linked with:
- Maths (data handling, measuring, graphs)
- English (writing explanations, discussions and reports)
- Computing (research, data handling and presentation)
Inclusive practice
All pupils access the Science curriculum. Learning is adapted through scaffolding, modelling, practical support and targeted questioning to ensure all pupils can succeed.
The Intent of our Science Curriculum
At Kirkham & Wesham Primary School, we aim to deliver a broad, exciting and ambitious Science curriculum that enables all children to explore and understand the world around them.
Our curriculum is designed to:
✔ spark curiosity and nurture a love of science
✔ encourage children to think like scientists by questioning, exploring and investigating
✔ build deep understanding of scientific concepts and vocabulary
✔ promote ambition and aspiration for STEM-related careers
✔ provide memorable learning experiences through practical and hands-on activities
We want all children to believe they can be scientists and to develop confidence in applying their knowledge and skills to the world around them.
The Implementation of our Science Curriculum
Our Science curriculum follows the National Curriculum and is carefully sequenced to ensure progression of knowledge and skills across all year groups.
Curriculum Structure
EYFS: Understanding the World
KS1 & KS2:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Working Scientifically
Each unit builds on prior learning, allowing pupils to deepen their understanding over time. Lessons are designed to develop both scientific knowledge and enquiry skills.
Pupils engage in a range of scientific enquiries, including:
- observing over time
- pattern seeking
- identifying, classifying and grouping
- comparative and fair testing
- researching using secondary sources
Teachers begin units by identifying prior knowledge and misconceptions. Key concepts and vocabulary are revisited regularly to support retention.
Learning is practical and engaging, with opportunities for pupils to explore, investigate and apply their knowledge. Pupils are encouraged to work collaboratively, discuss ideas and evaluate their findings.
Trips, visitors and real-life contexts are used to enhance learning and demonstrate the relevance of science in everyday life.
The Impact of our Science Curriculum
By the end of Key Stage 2, pupils at KWPS will:
✔ achieve at least age-related expectations in Science
✔ demonstrate curiosity and enthusiasm for scientific enquiry
✔ use scientific vocabulary and methods accurately
✔ understand the role of science in everyday life and the wider world
✔ apply their knowledge to explain and investigate scientific concepts
Our pupils leave KWPS as confident learners who are prepared for the next stage of their education and inspired to explore science further.
National Curriculum Aims for Science
The National Curriculum for Science aims to ensure that pupils:
- develop scientific knowledge and conceptual understanding
- develop understanding of the nature, processes and methods of science
- are equipped with the scientific knowledge required to understand the uses and implications of science
These aims are embedded throughout our curriculum.
Assessment
Assessment in Science is used to monitor pupil progress and inform teaching.
Teachers use ongoing formative assessment through questioning, observation, discussion and review of work to identify misconceptions and adapt teaching.
Progress is monitored through:
- pupil work in books
- practical investigations
- pupil discussion and questioning
- teacher assessment
Assessment is used to identify gaps in learning and ensure all pupils make progress in both knowledge and scientific enquiry skills.
What is taught in each year group
Our Science curriculum is carefully sequenced from EYFS to Year 6, ensuring progression in knowledge and skills over time.
Please see our Science Curriculum Overview below for full details of what is taught in each year group.
Progression of Skills
Working Scientifically
EYFS:
Children explore, observe and talk about the world around them.
KS1:
Pupils ask simple questions, carry out basic tests and begin to record results.
LKS2:
Pupils plan and carry out investigations, record findings and begin to explain results.
UKS2:
Pupils design fair tests, analyse results, draw conclusions and evaluate investigations.
Scientific Knowledge
EYFS:
Children begin to understand the natural world and changes over time.
KS1:
Pupils develop knowledge of plants, animals, materials and seasonal change.
LKS2:
Pupils deepen understanding of living things, forces, light, rocks and states of matter.
UKS2:
Pupils explore more complex concepts including electricity, evolution, space and the human body.
Inclusion and Accessibility
Our Science curriculum is designed to be accessible to all pupils. We are committed to ensuring that every child can participate and succeed.
We meet our duties under the Equality Act 2010 and SEND regulations by:
- adapting teaching to meet individual needs
- using scaffolding and practical support
- providing targeted support
- maintaining high expectations for all learners
Find Out More
If you would like more information about the Science curriculum, please contact:
Mrs R Lewthwaite – Science Subject Leader
Enquiries can be made via the school office